Game On: MD Anderson to Honor Pro Football Hall of Famer Emmitt Smith

Sixth annual A Conversation With a Living Legend® luncheon to support brain cancer research

Newswise — HOUSTON - Pro Football Hall of Fame member and "Dancing with the Stars" champion Emmitt Smith will be the honoree of the sixth annual A Conversation With a Living Legend luncheon, Monday, April 29, benefiting The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. The luncheon will be held at the Hilton Americas hotel in downtown Houston.

A respected entrepreneur, sought-after speaker and best-selling author, Smith is one of the most valuable brands in the sports-entertainment field. He rose to prominence via an illustrious football career, which included three Super Bowl championships as a member of the Dallas Cowboys. Smith is the only player in history to have won a Super Bowl, Super Bowl MVP, NFL MVP and NFL Rushing Crown all in the same season. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2010, he is the NFL's all-time leading rusher, amassing 18,355 yards during his 15 seasons.

Since its inception in 2007, A Conversation With a Living Legend® in Houston has raised more than $2 million for research and patient care initiatives at MD Anderson. Vicky and Harris Pappas chair this year's event. Honorary chairs are Sheridan and John Eddie Williams. Proceeds of this year's luncheon will support brain cancer research at MD Anderson.

Smith's charm and charisma made him one of the sports world's most popular personalities during his playing career and in the entertainment world following his retirement. In 2006, Smith's crossover appeal became even more apparent when he, along with dance partner Cheryl Burke, was crowned winner of the hit ABC reality show "Dancing with the Stars." Currently president & CEO of Emmitt Smith Enterprises Inc., Smith leads a team of talented people who oversee the company's many ventures - including Pat & Emmitt Smith Charities, an organization that annually awards college scholarships and provides enrichment opportunities to underserved youth.

As well known for his character and integrity as he is for his athletic ability, Smith has been a member of the President's Health and Fitness Council and has been recognized extensively for his leadership and public service. In 2011, he authored the book, "Game On: Find Your Purpose - Pursue Your Dreams," chronicling his humble beginnings growing up in Pensacola, Fla. to his rise on the football field and in the business world.

A graduate of the University of Florida with a bachelor's degree in public recreation, Smith is married and the father of five children.

Approximately 800 attendees are expected for the luncheon. For information, call 866-262-9029 or email events@mdanderson.org.

About MD AndersonThe University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston ranks as one of the world's most respected centers focused on cancer patient care, research, education and prevention. MD Anderson is one of only 41 comprehensive cancer centers designated by the National Cancer Institute. For nine of the past 11 years, including 2012, MD Anderson has ranked No. 1 in cancer care in "Best Hospitals," a survey published annually in U.S. News & World Report. MD Anderson receives a cancer center support grant from the National Cancer Institute of the National Institutes of Health (P30 CA016672).